Which finding on a cardiac assessment could indicate aortic stenosis?

The classic triad of symptoms including exertional dyspnea, angina, and syncope is indicative of aortic stenosis due to the hemodynamic changes that occur as the left ventricle works harder to pump blood through a narrowed aortic valve. As the condition progresses, patients may experience exertional dyspnea due to decreased cardiac output during exercise, angina as a result of inadequate coronary perfusion, and syncope from reduced cerebral perfusion, particularly during exertion or when standing up quickly. These symptoms highlight the impact of the obstruction at the valve and are commonly seen in patients with significant aortic stenosis.

Other findings such as a low heart rate, a regular pulse, or increased blood pressure are not specific indicators of aortic stenosis. Each of these could occur in a variety of other cardiovascular conditions and don’t capture the classic manifestations that arise from the impaired outflow at the aortic valve. Therefore, the classic triad is the most direct and specific finding for aortic stenosis, making it the correct choice.